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Disaster Unemployment Assistance

EDD helps people and businesses in California who have been affected by disasters.

If you lost your job or can’t work because of a disaster, you may qualify for unemployment, disability, or Paid Family Leave benefits.

If the president of the United States declares a disaster, Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) may also be available for workers and self-employed people who do not qualify for regular unemployment benefits.

For information on current disasters, visit EDD Disaster-Related Services.

How to Apply for Unemployment Benefits

Online

The fastest way to apply for unemployment benefits is through myEDD.

Apply Now

By Phone

Call one of these toll-free numbers, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Pacific Time). Closed on state holidays.

Interpreter services are available free of charge by calling: 1-800-300-5616.

English and Spanish:1-800-300-5616
Armenian: 1-855-528-1518
Cantonese: 1-800-547-3506
Korean: 1-844-660-0877
Mandarin: 1-866-303-0706
Tagalog: 1-866-395-1513
Vietnamese: 1-800-547-2058
California Relay Service (711): Provide the number (1-800-300-5616) to the operator.
TTY: 1-800-815-9387

Fax or Mail

If you use myEDD to apply for benefits, you may be asked to fax or mail your application. If so, the Unemployment Insurance Application (DE 1101I) will appear.
For faster processing, fax the completed form to the number listed on the form. If you mail your application, use the address on the form and allow extra time for processing.
If you have a claim but can’t get payments at home because of the disaster, contact your local post office.

Program Eligibility

If you lost your job or can’t work because of a disaster, you may qualify for one of these programs:

Unemployment	If you are out of work because of a disaster, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits. When you apply for benefits, tell us that you’re unemployed because of a disaster.
DUA	If the president of the United States declares a disaster in your area, DUA may be available. If you lose your job because of the disaster, and do not qualify for regular unemployment benefits, you may be able to get DUA. For more details and eligibility information, check the Fact Sheet: Disaster Employment Assistance (DE 8714DUA) (PDF).
DI	If you become sick or hurt and can’t work because of a disaster, you may qualify for DI benefits.
PFL	If you need to care for a family member hurt in the disaster, you may qualify for PFL benefits.

Additional Resources

United States Postal Service (USPS) – If you haven't received your mail, contact your local USPS office, or contact ASK USPS at 1-800-275-8777.
Governor's Office of Emergency Services – Find information about disaster relief and other resources.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) – Get information on how to apply for disaster help and resources for recent disasters and emergencies. Contact 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 1-800-462-7585.
State Insurance Commissioner – Find information to protect your home and property with insurance. Contact 1-800-927-HELP (4357).
Red Cross – Find out about shelters, supplies, and other help. For immediate assistance, contact 1-800-733-2767.
Emergency and Disaster Assistance for Employers
What to Expect When Visiting a Disaster Recovery Center or Local Assistance Center (YouTube)

Los Angeles County Fires

If you’ve been affected by the Los Angeles County fires and have questions about unemployment benefits, call us:

English: 1-833-998-2284
Spanish: 1-855-964-0634
Other languages: 1-800-300-5616

Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Pacific time), Monday through Friday, except on California state holidays.